Onundarfjord Pier

The sand is pale, somewhere between grey-white and gold, and the shallow water over it reads light blue. Snow-covered mountains stand behind the beach and across the water, still white through late April and May. The pier itself is small and sits a short distance off Road 61.

The area is isolated and gets very few tourists. Having the whole beach to yourself is normal rather than lucky. There is little to do beyond walking the sand, watching wildlife and taking photographs.

• No toilets. There are none at the pier, on the beach or by the parking area.
• No dogs. Dogs are not allowed at the pier or on the beach.
• Fine for children. The site is suitable for children, and the parking sits close to the pier, so nothing needs carrying far.

The pier lies south of Ísafjörður on Road 61, on the right-hand side and a short distance from the road. Park by the shed and barn next to the pier. From there the pier and the sand are a few steps away, with no climb and nothing to walk. No bus reaches the pier, so this is a stop for people driving the Westfjords.

Best: clear days in late April and May, or around midnight in July.

Avoid: overcast weather.

The pale sand and the light blue water need sun to show; without it the place is far less striking. In late spring the mountains behind the beach are still snow-covered. Close to midnight in summer the beach can be empty.